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Machine Helper Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$21.60/hr

Machine Packaging Operators are the core of our liquids manufacturing operation. They control ... Up to $30,000 to help cover the cost of fertility treatments, adoption or surrogacy * Up to 18 ...

Manatt's

Machine Control Specialist

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Summary The Machine Control Specialist works directly under Project Managers and will be ... If you need help accessing this page, please contact: Phone: 641-522-9206 Ext. 1228 Email: susane ...

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Machine Helper information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do machine helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine helper in Iowa is $16.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine helper?

Machine Helpers are workers who assist machine operators in manufacturing or production settings. They are responsible for supporting the setup, operation, and maintenance of machinery, as well as ensuring materials are loaded correctly and finished products are removed efficiently. Their duties often include cleaning equipment, monitoring machine performance, and helping with minor repairs or adjustments. Machine Helpers play a vital role in keeping production lines running smoothly and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine helper, and why are they important?

To excel as a Machine Helper, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and possibly forklift or OSHA certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and reliability are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe and efficient machine operation, minimize downtime, and contribute to a productive work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by machine helpers in a manufacturing environment and how can they be addressed?

Machine Helpers often encounter challenges such as keeping up with fast-paced production lines, handling repetitive tasks, and ensuring safety around heavy machinery. To address these, it's important to stay attentive, follow safety protocols, and communicate effectively with machine operators and supervisors. Developing good organizational habits and being proactive about machine maintenance can also help prevent breakdowns and maintain efficiency. Training and teamwork are key for overcoming these challenges and ensuring a smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Machine Helper vs Machine Operator?

AspectMachine HelperMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; often additional certifications or training
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, construction sitesFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing and constructionPrimarily in manufacturing, production, and industrial sectors
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist machine operators, prepare materials, perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, monitor production, ensure safety and quality

In summary, a Machine Helper assists Machine Operators by preparing materials and performing basic tasks, while Machine Operators are responsible for running and managing machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments but differ in responsibilities and required skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Machine jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Machine Helper jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Machine Helper job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Machine Helper jobs in IA?

For Machine Helper jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Machine Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Helper job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,089 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

IA • On-site

The Scotts Company LLC
Chemical Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about The Scotts Company LLCexternal

$21.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Here at Scotts Miracle-Gro there is no such thing as a typical day. Our culture is constantly energized by new and exciting growth opportunities and at a rapid pace. Below are details on an open job. If the role interests you and you would like to be considered we encourage you to apply!
This hourly role follows the Scotts step pay progression scale and typically starts at $21.60 per hour and is paid weekly. Scotts will consider various factors in determining the actual pay including your skills, qualifications, experience, and geographical location.
$500 SIGN ON BONUS!
We are looking for a Machine Packaging Operator who will join our Liquids Manufacturing team in Ft. Madison, IA.
Machine Packaging Operators are the core of our liquids manufacturing operation. They control automated liquid bottle filling machinery and feed components onto assembly conveyors and other equipment. If you're looking for a fast paced, high energy environment, this could be the role for you!
What you'll do in this role:
  • The Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing various tasks associated with the packaging of liquid products and operating various packaging machines on production lines.
  • Adhere to plant safety rules and programs as it pertains to self and all other associates, including performing audits, safety suggestions, and participation in safety rotation of jobs.
  • Operates and tends automated machinery that performs one or more liquid bottling packaging functions, to assist in meeting assembly line production schedules.
  • Ability to learn multiple pieces of automated equipment and flexibility to move to different machinery daily.
  • Feed components onto assembly conveyor, into hoppers, machinery or other devices to maintain continuous production. Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts, bottles, caps, labels, sprayers, etc., avoiding breaks in production assembly process.
  • Manually assemble/install various liquid packaging component parts including but not limited to sprayers, caps, box dividers, cases, display units, etc.
  • Clean, lubricate, reassemble, install, troubleshoot and adjust assembly line equipment to meet yearly and daily maintenance requirements and to complete frequent reconfiguration of assembly lines in preparation for changing product runs.
  • Effectively communicate and relay information to peers and supervisors concerning the performance of the production line as it pertains to the assembly, operation and performance of the line.
  • Continuously look for methods, procedural changes, or equipment modifications to improve line output and efficiencies and communicate appropriately.
  • Perform various manufacturing inspection protocols to ensure plant quality standards on liquid packaging products and display units.

What you'll need to be successful:
  • High School Diploma / GED, preferred.
  • Minimum 1 year experience as a machine operator, production operator or equivalent position in a high speed manufacturing environment preferred.
  • Basic math skills, mechanical aptitude, ability to make decisions regarding equipment adjustments to meet product specifications and quality conformity.
  • Ability to follow the directions provided in verbal or non-verbal format.
  • Demonstrate a willingness to learn multiple machines or operations.
  • Must be a team player and promote teamwork amongst productions lines, departments and shifts.
  • Available to work any shift and overtime as needed.

What we do for you (just to name a few cool ones):
  • Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, holidays, vacation and sick time benefits available within a month of your start date
  • Healthcare navigation, advocacy and support
  • 401(k) company match up to 7.5% with immediate participation and vesting
  • Ability to purchase company stock at a 15% discounted price from market value
  • $600 annual wellness reimbursement program
  • Up to $30,000 to help cover the cost of fertility treatments, adoption or surrogacy
  • Up to 18 weeks of time away to support your growing family
  • To view all of our great benefits, click here!

* Eligibility for the above benefits may vary based on full-time/part-time status or additional factors.
Not interested in this role? Stay up to date on future opportunities by joining our ScottsMiracle-Gro talent communities.
Scotts is an EEO Employer, dedicated to a culturally diverse, drug free workplace.
EEO/AA Employer/Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity
Notification to Agencies:
Please note that the Scotts Miracle-Gro company does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Master Service Agreement, and specific approval to submit resumes to an approved requisition, the Scotts Miracle-Gro company will not consider or approve payment regarding recruiter fees or referral compensations.

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